Consider yourself a member of the group. Participating in the projects along with your group and sharing your own worries can send a powerful message, letting everyone know that worry is normal and something we all must learn to navigate.
Create a safe environment for self-expression and sharing by involving students in creating group agreements: What do you all need in order to feel comfortable and safe sharing your feelings and artwork? Collect ideas on paper, sign your names and post in your meeting space.
Share leadership. Involve all group members in the selection and leading of projects.
Welcome and accommodate different needs and styles of learning and expression, and offer extra processing- before-sharing time to those who need it.
Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.
Changing the stories we carry about ourselves and growing a friendlier relationship with fear and worry takes time and repetition. If possible, consider weekly sessions or incorporating a creative wellness ritual into your day or week.
Encourage creative wellness time at home. Our projects are great for encouraging communication, understanding, and resilience-building at home. Try suggesting a weekly family art project. Or encourage students to pair up with a friend for some shared creative time.
Reach out any time! Feel free to email us if you’d like our help in using or customizing our projects. We’re here for you!